Cancun weather by month

When to go to Cancun

For beach weather, look at months where the daytime average clears 25°C and rainy days stay low: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December. September is the wettest month (206 mm, about 25 rainy days) and March the driest (33 mm). The sea is warmest in September at 28.9°C and coolest in February at 25.9°C.

Getting there

A direct flight from London Gatwick to Cancún International Airport (CUN, 15 km from Cancún) takes roughly 10 h 42 min - long-haul (7 h+) by UK standards. Time-zone: America/Cancun.

Records and extremes, 1991-2020

The hottest day recorded in Cancun between 1991 and 2020 reached 32.8°C on 8 June 2017; the coldest fell to 14.2°C on 22 December 2018. In August one day in ten tops 31.1°C and about 50% of days pass 30°C; in January one night in ten drops to 19.5°C or below. The wettest single month of the period was October 2005 with 529 mm, against a October average of 193 mm.

January to April: the strongest stretch for outdoor plans

This is the stretch to favour if you want warm days without Cancun's highest temperatures. January is the coolest month, but its daytime average of 25°C still suits light clothing and time beside the sea. It is also rainier than February and March, so moving your trip later improves the balance. February brings slightly warmer days, while March is the driest month and a strong choice if rain is your main concern. April adds more warmth and the most sunshine, with the sea reaching 27°C. For swimming, relaxing outdoors and keeping plans relatively straightforward, these months offer the best balance, although none is rain-free.

May to August: hotter days and a growing rain trade-off

May marks a shift: days average 29°C and the sea warms to 28°C, but rain becomes more frequent than in April. It can suit travellers who want extra warmth and can keep outdoor plans flexible. June is a less convincing choice for sunshine, with 19 rain days and only 5 hours of sun. July brings a modest improvement in that balance, though midday heat remains a consideration. August is the hottest month and has more rain days than July, so it is not the best choice for avoiding wet weather. Choose breathable clothing, build in shade breaks and expect evenings to stay warm rather than offer much cooling.

September to December: wet weather gives way to a better balance

September is the clearest compromise: the sea averages 29°C, but it is the wettest month, with 25 rain days. That makes it a poor fit for travellers whose holiday depends on spending most days outdoors. October eases slightly, yet remains among the weaker months for the overall weather balance; do not assume it offers the same conditions as late autumn. November is a more practical middle ground, with fewer rain days, gentler daytime heat and a still-warm sea. December cools further to a daytime average of 26°C. It suits those who prefer less heat, though February and March have fewer rain days if that matters most.